tech
February 18, 2026
FACTBOX: Telegram blocking speculation and mass channel crackdown
Roskomnadzor’s press service stated that the agency has nothing to add to previously published information regarding the possible blocking of Telegram
TL;DR
- Reports suggest Telegram might be fully blocked in Russia starting April 1.
- Roskomnadzor states Telegram does not comply with Russian legislation, with concerns over data protection and criminal use.
- Some Russian officials consider the blocking date speculative and potentially part of a negotiation.
- There are no official confirmations or announced legal steps for a total restriction of Telegram's access.
- Russia maintains a stance of working with internet platforms that comply with national legislation.
- Telegram has blocked over 7.463 million groups and channels worldwide this year due to policy violations.
- The messenger administration has been actively blocking channels and groups since November 2024.
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